‘We’re devastated’

Police say there were two incidents of suspected arson at the Little Lambs Nursery on Corringham Road, Gainsborough over the weekend.

Owner John Ramm branded the attackers ‘cowards’ - saying that it was ‘just mindless vandalism’.

The first incident was discovered at 11.45pm on the Friday 9th December when police attended after the alarm was set off, when they found evidence of an arson attempt.

Police were alerted to the second incident at 9.37pm on Sunday 11th December when fire crews received reports of black smoke coming from the nursery.

The kitchen was severely damaged by fire while the rest of the building has been ravaged by smoke and heat damage - with everything caked black.

Owner John Ramm said: “When we first saw the damage, we were gutted. This is absolutely devastating.”

“Whoever has done this is a coward - it’s just sheer, mindless vandalism, if you can even call it that. It just seems so absolutely pointless.” John continued: “They should be ashamed of themselves, because it’s the parents, the staff and the children who are suffering.”

“If someone is trying to put us out of business then it won’t happen - we’ll be back open and running again very soon.”

He added: “I’d like to thank all of the staff for their support - especiall Vikci Knight. The police have been brilliant too, as have a lot of local businesses.”

The Little Lambs Christmas party that was scheduled for Wednesday 14th will now take place on Monday 19th December at St George’s Church Hall, Heapham Road, from 10.30am - 12.30pm.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Lincolnshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.